What if you woke up one day and were... different? That's the central question posed by the world of the X-Men, the fictional mutant superheroes created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. In 2000, the colorful characters made the leap from comics to the movies. All X-Men movies share similar themes of mutant rights and good versus evil, but each film takes a slightly different approach to the superhero story. This is a list of the greatest X-Men movies ranked from best to worst.
What films will you find on this list of X-Men movies? X-Men: First Class rebooted the series in 2011, going back to the 1960s to focus on the complex relationship of Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr. The darkly comic Deadpool, starring Ryan Reynolds, is a fan-favorite spin-off in the X-Men franchise. Other movies featured on this list include Logan, X2, and the original film, X-Men.
Which X-Men movie do you think deserves the top spot on this list? Give the best films a thumbs up and share your favorite characters in the comments section.
For Fans Of: Superhero Films, Time Travel, Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Why Should I Watch X-Men: Days of Future Past: Blending time-traveling intrigue with character-driven drama, this fast-paced installment brings together cast members from both the original trilogy and their prequel counterparts for a thrilling adventure that rewrites history. Featuring compelling performances, particularly from Michael Fassbender as Magneto, this ambitious crossover offers fresh perspectives on established characters while exploring the consequences of changing one's past.- Actors: Hugh Jackman, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, Halle Berry
- Directed by: Bryan Singer
- 2
For Fans Of: Superhero Films, Adventure, Science Fiction, Action, Thriller
Why Should I Watch X-Men 2: A strong sequel bolstered by impressive visuals and an engaging storyline, X-Men 2 expands on the themes of prejudice and human evolution introduced in its predecessor. This film showcases the team's dynamics and further probes the complex relationship between Professor Xavier and Magneto, while also introducing fan-favorite additions like Nightcrawler to the mix.- Actors: Patrick Stewart, Hugh Jackman, Ian McKellen, Halle Berry, Famke Janssen
- Directed by: Bryan Singer
- 3
For Fans Of: Superhero Films, Neo-Western, Drama, Action, Thriller
Why Should I Watch Logan: A poignant farewell to Hugh Jackman's iconic portrayal of Wolverine, Logan provides a darker, grittier vision of the mutant world set in a dystopian future. Emotionally charged performances from both Jackman and Patrick Stewart elevate this brutal yet tender exploration of legacy, sacrifice, and redemption that transcends typical superhero movie tropes.- Actors: Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Dafne Keen
- Directed by: James Mangold
- 4
For Fans Of: Superhero Films, Action, Adventure, Science Fiction, Spy Films
Why Should I Watch X-Men: First Class: A spirited prequel boasting an all-star cast led by James McAvoy as Charles Xavier and Michael Fassbender as Erik Lensherr (Magneto), First Class thrillingly delves into the origins of the iconic mutant team. Set against a backdrop of Cold War-era tension, this stylish and character-driven film breathes new life into the franchise while deftly exploring themes of identity, friendship, and ideological conflict.- Actors: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Rose Byrne, Jennifer Lawrence, January Jones
- Directed by: Matthew Vaughn
- 5
For Fans Of: Superhero Films, Adventure, Science Fiction, Action
Why Should I Watch X-Men: The film that launched a franchise juggernaut, Bryan Singer's groundbreaking adaptation effectively translates comic book sensibilities to the big screen while tackling important social issues like prejudice and discrimination. Engrossing performances by Patrick Stewart as Professor Xavier and Ian McKellen as Magneto lend gravitas to a compelling tale that sets up the intricate world-building necessary for future installments.- Actors: Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Famke Janssen, James Marsden
- Directed by: Bryan Singer
- 6
For Fans Of: Superhero Films, Action, Comedy, Adventure
Why Should I Watch Deadpool: A subversive, genre-defying take on the superhero movie formula that gleefully embraces its R-rating, Deadpool delivers raucous humor and adrenaline-fueled action in equal measure. Ryan Reynolds' pitch-perfect portrayal of the snarky, self-aware mercenary with a heart of gold is an instant classic that balances an irreverent tone with unexpected emotional depth.- Actors: Ryan Reynolds, Morena Baccarin, T.J. Miller
- Directed by: Tim Miller
